Does a driver have to turn on rear number plate lights at night in Northern Ireland?

Yes. Between sunset and sunrise, the Highway Code requires sidelights and rear registration plate lights to be illuminated.

Rule 113 separately requires headlights at night and when visibility is seriously reduced. The rear registration plate light must allow the registration to be seen; relying solely on the vehicle’s daytime running lights is not sufficient. Before driving after dark, check that the correct exterior lights come on and that a failed number plate bulb is replaced.